As the 13th National Parliamentary Election approaches, more than 50 nomination seekers from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) have actively begun campaigning in Barisal’s six constituencies, aiming to contest under the party’s iconic "Sheaf of Paddy" symbol. Although the election date is yet to be finalized, it is widely expected to be held in the first half of February next year. In preparation, both central and local BNP leaders in Barisal have intensified their groundwork.

Internal Conflict on the Rise

According to party insiders, the unusually high number of aspirants has triggered internal divisions within Barisal BNP. Even BNP’s Acting Chairman, Tarique Rahman, currently residing in London, is reportedly concerned about the growing factionalism. Despite warnings from the top, nomination seekers continue lobbying at the central level and are actively engaging with constituents to boost their popularity.

Constituency-Wise Nomination Seekers

Barisal-1 (Agailjhara-Gournadi)

• Zahir Uddin Swapan (Advisor to the Chairperson, former MP)

• Engr. Abdus Sobahan (Central Executive Member)

• Akon Kuddusur Rahman (Divisional Joint Organizing Secretary)

Barisal-2 (Uzirpur-Banaripara)

• Sarfuddin Ahmed Santu (Central Executive Member)

• Mohammad Dulal Hossain

• Delowar Hossain

• Kazi Rawnakul Islam Tipu (Assistant Secretary, Forest & Environment)

• Said Mahmud Jewel (Former General Secretary, Central Chhatra Dal)

Barisal-3 (Babuganj-Muladi)

• Selima Rahman (Standing Committee Member)

• Zainul Abedin (Vice President)

Barisal-4 (Hijla-Mehendiganj)

• Mezbah Uddin Farhad (Former MP)

• Rajib Ahsan (General Secretary, Central Volunteer Wing)

Barisal-5 (Sadar)

• Mojibur Rahman Sarwar (Three-time MP, Advisor to the Chairperson)

• Moazzem Hossain Alal (Advisor to the Chairperson)

• Abu Naser Md. Rahmatullah (Central Executive Member)

• Ebaidul Haque Chan

• Bilkis Jahan Shirin (Former Divisional Organizing Secretary)

• Moniruzzaman Faruk (Metropolitan Convener)

• Abul Kalam Shahin (District BNP Member Secretary)

• Afroza Khanam Nasrin (Senior Joint Convener)

• Zia Uddin Sikder (Metropolitan Member Secretary – has withdrawn candidacy)

Barisal-6 (Bakerganj)

• Abul Hossain khan (Former MP)

• Nazrul Islam Khan Rajon (Former Organizing Secretary)

• Nurul Islam Khan Masud (Former Jubo Dal & Chhatra Dal Leader)

• Abu Zafar Sikder Badol (Joint General Secretary, Volunteer Wing)

Internal Rivalries and Central Intervention

With such a large pool of candidates, groupings and rivalries have become increasingly visible within the local BNP leadership. In some cases, these internal tensions have escalated to verbal altercations. The party’s central leadership has repeatedly instructed members to avoid public confrontation, with Tarique Rahman himself issuing strict warnings.

Sources confirm that at least three candidates—Zahir Uddin Swapan (Barisal-1), Advocate Zainul Abedin (Barisal-3), and Rajib Ahsan (Barisal-4)—have reportedly received a "green signal" from the high command to continue campaigning. However, rival aspirants have dismissed these reports as mere rumors. Disagreements among supporters have prompted party leaders to urge unity and patience.

BNP's Official Position on Nominations

BNP Standing Committee Member Selima Rahman commented:

“BNP is a large political party, so it’s natural to have a large number of nomination seekers. But once the central committee finalizes a single candidate for each seat, these internal divisions will disappear. I believe all aspirants will abide by the party’s decision, and no one will contest as a rebel to harm the party.”

She further added:

“At this moment, what the country needs most is a free and fair election. Voters have long been deprived of their right to elect a representative of their choice. We hope this time, the people’s expectations will be fulfilled.”

Conclusion

The presence of over 50 BNP nomination seekers across Barisal’s six constituencies reflects the party’s grassroots engagement and popularity. However, the growing internal discord has become a concern for the leadership. As the party works to finalize its nominees, the political equation remains uncertain. Who will have the last laugh? Time will tell.